Beyond the historic climate march

More than 100,000 people march through midtown Manhattan on Sept. 21 as part of the People’s Climate March, a worldwide mobilization calling on world leaders meeting at the U.N. to commit to urgent action on climate change and 100% clean energy in New York.(Photo: John Minchillo/AP Images for AVAAZ)

On Sept. 21, my family, members of the Sisters of Mercy and Mercy Associates marched alongside people of every faith in the People's Climate March in New York City. Together we joined hundreds of thousands of concerned citizens who filled the streets and cheered from the sidelines and building windows above, calling on our world leaders to urgently address the growing threat of climate change. Friends who could not attend held us in prayer and followed us on social media.

The U.S. must lead by committing to reduce carbon emissions 40 percent by 2020. It is also time for developed nations to honor their commitments to support the Green Climate Fund needed to provide support to developing nations so that they have the means to decrease their emissions. And, it is time for each of us to understand the problem.

As a parent, I want my children to have a world in which they can thrive and survive. I join others in committing to care for our Earth and fight for sustainability of life. Right now, those who suffer most from our lack of regard for a sustainable future are the most vulnerable among us, while the privileged few reap the benefits of short-term profit. The ramifications of our inaction will ultimately be felt broadly by all of us.

It has been said that if the people lead, the leaders will follow. Now is the time to insist on sustainability, because if we don't it will be too late!

JEAN MARKEY-DUNCAN

Burlington

Markey Dunan is the Vermont representative to the Northeast Justice Council – Sisters of Mercy.

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